Britain's most unwanted dog gets a home after 10-year search

The country's most unwanted pooch, Errol the crossbreed collie, seemed destined to end his days in the rescue centre that has been his home for 10 years.

But in a heartwarming tale to raise New Year spirits, the long-haired canine will instead learn what it's like to be cherished by a loving family.

An appeal for a new home for Errol touched the hearts of Michael and Elsebeth Housdon from Wimbledon, who decided he would be perfect for them.

Scroll down for more...

Mrs Housdon, 54, a chartered accountant, said: "When I saw him in the paper he looked like our previous rough collie Ben and he really appealed to me.

"He is a beautiful dog, he is going to be lots of fun."

Her husband added: "We have a spacious house and a large garden. Our house overlooks the common so it is very convenient for dogs. We just want to give him a good life."

Errol made the headlines last week after the Gemini Kennels in Wickford, Essex, revealed they'd had him since 1997. He had been rescued with his brother William but kennel owners Michael Knight and Eunice Reece did not want to split them up so it was difficult to find a home for both of them together.

After William died last year they appealed to find Errol the perfect home.

Scroll down for more...

Mr Knight said he had received more than 700 calls after the appeal, but said he did not think Errol could have found a more perfect home.

"We have people from as far as Scotland and Belgium offering to give him a home, he has really touched people's hearts.

"He will live the life of luxury. He will never want for anything at his new home."